The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has issued a public alert following the confirmation of a Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak in Ethiopia, calling for heightened vigilance across the country.
In a statement signed by Acting Director-General Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the GHS noted that the Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) informed the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 14, 2025, of nine confirmed cases and three deaths linked to the virus.
GHS is closely monitoring the situation due to frequent travel between Ghana and Ethiopia and has activated preventive measures to protect the public. The Ministry of Health and GHS are implementing interventions, including enhanced surveillance at all points of entry, issuing alerts to regions and health facilities, activating public health emergency response structures, and collaborating with One Health partners such as the Veterinary Services Directorate and Wildlife Division.
Marburg Virus Disease is a highly infectious illness caused by the Marburg virus, which can spread from animals to humans and between people. The incubation period ranges from two to 21 days, and no vaccine is currently available. Treatment focuses on supportive care.
The public is advised to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility if symptoms such as fever, bloody diarrhoea, bleeding from the gums, eyes, or skin, or bloody urine are observed. GHS also urges strict adherence to basic preventive measures, including frequent handwashing with soap or using alcohol-based sanitizers, avoiding direct contact with anyone showing symptoms, and steering clear of animals exhibiting bleeding signs.
The Service reassured Ghanaians that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard the population and prevent the spread of the disease.
